Why do we need to change the narrative on suicide? Suicide is preventable and sadly, one of the biggest barriers to people getting the help they need is how we perceive and talk about suicide.
There’s still a lot of stigma, shame, fear and harmful cultural attitudes surrounding suicide. That makes it hard for people to talk about it, and come forward to get the help they need. Instead, they also have to worry about being judged, shunned by their communities, being looked down on, labelled or treated like an outcast.
Although suicide rates around the world are in decline, every year more than 700,000 people die by suicide. In London, thats 10 every single week. each is one too many.
So how do we make a change? Suicide is a complex issue. And it will require us to challenge ourselves, and each other. It will demand that we challenge our deep rooted beliefs and ideas that have been perpetuated for generations in the language we use and the way we treat with the issue…..people affected by suicide, whether it’s survivors, those we’ve lost or those left behind.
But starting these vital conversations, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create cultures with empathy, understanding and support.
How can we change the narrative on suicide? 3 tips
1. Listen with empathy, speak with kindness.
—Ask your loved ones how they’re doing, and listen without judging or dismissing. Validate their experiences and encourage them to seek support.
2. Think about the language you use when talking about suicide. Is there judgement behind your words? Are you implying something? Or saying something about how YOU feel about the matter? For example a common thing we hear is thats so selfish and people have it way worse than you.
We all have our own lived experiences and when someone shares theirs, it’s not for us to judge them. Listen with empathy. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and imagine what it must be like for them. And if you can’t imagine it, that’s ok, but try listen with an open heart.
3. Take the 10 min training from Zero Suicide Alliance. It’s free and it can help you save a life.
Guidance from the International Association for Suicide Prevention
Check in with loved ones: Taking time to reach out to someone in your community, a family member, friend, colleague or even a stranger – could change the course of another’s life. Look out for those who you think might be struggling and don’t be afraid to ask someone if they are suicidal; the offer of support, showing empathy and validating their feelings is more likely to reduce distress rather than exacerbate it. Encourage them to seek help and further support.
Keep informed: Consider accessing training opportunities in suicide prevention and awareness to identify and support those with suicidal thoughts and behaviour. Opportunities maybe available locally through workshops, online or in your workplace.
Share your story: Individuals who have survived a suicide attempt or experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide often have valuable insights and can help us understand how the words and actions of others can be important. Sharing your story in a safe and supported way can be powerful to both you and to those around you. Your story can inspire others to seek help and to know they are not alone.
Advocate for mental health awareness: Promote mental health awareness within your community, use social media, local events or even casual conversations to help spread the message.
Gentle hugs
English
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